Glamping options near Oak Grove, Kentucky provide year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation with varying levels of amenities depending on the season. The area sits at the Kentucky-Tennessee border with rolling hills and lake access defining much of the camping landscape. Water activities dominate the summer months with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter camping remains available at select locations with temperatures typically ranging from 30-50°F.
What to do
Lake activities: Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley serve as primary recreation spots for campers. At Energy Lake Campground, "the lake was gorgeous and perfect for kayaking though, with lots of nice coves to explore and wildlife to see. I saw a doe with a spotted fawn nursing on my first trip onto the water," reports one visitor. Boat rentals are available at many locations.
Hiking trails: Explore local ecosystems through numerous trails within Land Between The Lakes. At Montgomery Bell State Park Campground, campers find "a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church" according to one reviewer. Trails range from easy family walks to more challenging terrain.
Wildlife viewing: Observe native species in protected habitats. "We checked out the Elk and Bison Prairie, which was really cool. Nature station was really cool and we rented some canoes to explore around that area," explained a camper at Montgomery Bell. Some locations offer guided wildlife tours during peak seasons.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Direct lake access provides convenience for water activities. At Boswell Landing Campground, "we had the perfect set up! We were 100ft. from the lake and had so many trees to use for our hammocks. One of the best camping sites I've had in a long time!" The natural setting offers both privacy and lake views.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses rank high among camper priorities. One camper at Piney Campground noted it has "nice bathhouses, and boat ramp. Sites are a little close together but nice." Most established campgrounds feature shower facilities.
Historical elements: Civil War sites provide educational opportunities. A visitor noted that near Boswell Landing "within walking distance of the campground, down the paved road are a few notable things: Buchanan Cemetery, which is a civil war cemetery, and the site of Fort Henry." These historical features offer additional activities beyond standard outdoor recreation.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require equipment for proper RV or trailer setup. A camper at Lake Barkley State Resort Park observed that "pads are not level. Saw a class A that had front wheels 10" off the ground and a TT with the hitch on the ground. Many sites had drop offs on the door side of the pad so you could not use all the awning space."
Off-season limitations: Services reduce during winter months. "Most glamping sites in the region remain open year-round, though Lake Barkley and Pennyrile Forest operate seasonally from April through October."
Road conditions: Access to primitive sites can be challenging. At Ginger Bay, "the drive in is pretty rough even with us being in a jeep though." Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for accessing some of the more remote glamping locations near Oak Grove.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Kid-friendly amenities vary significantly between locations. At Energy Lake Campground, one camper noted the "playground was pretty disappointing with only a couple swings, a hot metal slide and a climbing bar." Research facilities before booking for family-appropriate recreation.
Swimming areas: Designated beaches provide safer water access. "The beach was far from impressive with basically gravel as half of the beach. I wasn't expecting Florida beaches in Kentucky, but in Indiana we have nice sandy beaches at lakes so I was disappointed," reported a visitor at Energy Lake Campground.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites engage children while camping. At Military Park Eagle's Rest Army Travel Camp Fort Campbell, "there were some fields to play and field to play with the dogs when its not being used. Nice areas to walk and field to play with the dogs when its not being used." The Fort Campbell area provides military history context for family discussions.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Extension cords required at many campgrounds. A visitor to Lake Barkley State Resort Park suggested to "bring quite a bit of leveling materials as the sites are very unlevel. 1 dump station and an older but usable bath house." Always carry extra hose and power cord length.
Off-peak advantages: Less crowded experiences during weekdays and non-summer months. At Montgomery Bell State Park Campground, a reviewer advised, "This place is OK when it's not a busy weekend... When it's full, it's just TOO full. Too many people, dogs and kids that are too close together. When it's not a long weekend and they're not full, I would highly recommend the location."
Site selection strategies: Research specific site numbers before booking. "Check with the hosts about canoe and kayak rentals upon check in, there is limited availability when camp is full and hot weather can also affect," suggested a visitor to Energy Lake regarding glamping in Oak Grove, Kentucky area.
